Lead Teacher in Special Preschool Class in Patterson, NY

About the Role

We are seeking a compassionate, skilled, and dependable Lead Teacher to lead our special education preschool classroom. This classroom setting provides individualized attention and structured support to help young learners thrive socially, emotionally, and academically.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience teaching preschoolers with special needs, strong behavior management skills, and confident command of a structured classroom. They are an organized, collaborative leader who is passionate about early childhood special education and ready to guide a team of teacher assistants.

Details of the Program

• Full-time position, Monday through Friday
• Classroom hours are 8:15 to 2:15 with a half-hour lunch break
• The center is located at 40 Jon Barrett Road, Patterson, NY

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and lead developmentally appropriate daily lessons and activities aligned with each student's IEP goals
• Establish and manage classroom routines, transitions, and behavior support plans
• Individualize instruction based on each student's developmental and learning needs
• Collect data on IEP goals, assess student progress, and write progress reports
• Participate in CPSE meetings, annual reviews, and other planning meetings as needed
• Supervise, direct, and support the assistants, aides and any substitutes in the classroom
• Collaborate with related service providers (speech, occupational, and physical therapy, counseling) to carry therapy goals into daily routines
• Communicate regularly with families about their child's progress and needs
  
• Maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom that meets health, safety, and regulatory requirements
• Keep accurate student records and classroom documentation
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and professional development as needed

Qualifications

• Proven experience teaching preschool-aged children (ages 3–5) with special needs required, including children with autism, developmental delays, speech and language delays, and challenging behaviors
• Strong behavior management skills, including experience implementing behavior intervention plans, positive behavior supports, and de-escalation strategies
• Demonstrated command of a structured special education classroom: able to keep students engaged, safe, and on task through routines, visual supports, and clear expectations
• Master's degree in Special Education, Early Childhood Education
• New York State teaching certification in Students with Disabilities (Birth–Grade 2) required
• Working knowledge of IEPs and data collection on student goals
• Experience supervising or directing classroom staff a plus
• Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and supportive in a fast-paced environment
• Must meet state background check and clearance requirements

Skills & Attributes

• Confident, consistent classroom leader who sets clear expectations and follows through
• Skilled at preventing and responding to challenging behaviors calmly and effectively
• Warm, nurturing, and positive attitude
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Able to direct a team and model best practices for assistants
• Flexible and dependable
• Commitment to supporting diverse learners

What We Offer

• Supportive team environment
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Meaningful and rewarding work
• Full-time benefits if applicable: health insurance, PTO, and retirement plan